Blacksburg, Virginia – Residents across southwest Virginia should prepare for strong to severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening as damaging wind gusts near 60 mph threaten to become the primary hazard. Heavy rain, large hail and isolated tornadoes are also possible as storms develop across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, severe thunderstorms may form this afternoon and continue into the evening across much of southwest and south-central Virginia, northwest North Carolina and southeast West Virginia. The entire forecast area is under a Level 2 of 5 Slight Risk for severe weather, with the greatest tornado potential focused near the crest of the Blue Ridge and across portions of the Piedmont.
Cities including Roanoke, Blacksburg, Wytheville, Martinsville, Danville, Bluefield and Lewisburg should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. The strongest storms may produce wind damage capable of downing tree limbs, causing scattered power outages and making travel hazardous. Hail as large as quarters or larger is also possible, while localized heavy rainfall could lead to isolated flash flooding in poor-drainage and low-lying areas.
Motorists should be alert for sudden reductions in visibility during heavy rain and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Those with outdoor plans should be ready to seek sturdy shelter immediately if thunderstorms approach.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, charge electronic devices and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, including Wireless Emergency Alerts and NOAA Weather Radio. Additional severe thunderstorm or tornado watches and warnings may be issued as storms organize later this afternoon and evening.
